TABLE OF CONTENTS |
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GLOSSARY |
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1. GLASS CONTAINERS
GLASS CONTAINERS MANUFACTURING PROCESS
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2. PACKAGING IN PLASTICS
MOLDING METHODS FOR CONTAINERS |
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3. STANDARD CODE LETTERS
A. LIP UNDERCUT DIAMETER  RESIN MATERIALS This section provides a brief description of common plastic container resin materials, their qualities, usages and limitations. High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) HDPE is the most widely used resin for plastic bottles, both injection and extrusion blown. This material is economical, impact resistant, compatible with a wide range of products (including acids and caustics) and provides a good moisture barrier. It is usually supplied in FDA approved food grade. HDPE is not compatible with solvents. HDPE is naturally translucent and flexible. The addition of color will make HDPE opaque although not glossy. Adding extra weight to the bottle will yield a more rigid container. HDPE is supplied flame-treated on a stock basis and lends itself readily to silk-screen decoration. While HDPE provides good protection at below freezing temperatures, it cannot be used with products filled at over 160 degrees. or products requiring a hermetic seal. Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) LDPE is similar to HDPE in appearance and characteristics, but is less rigid and in general less chemically resistant than HDPE. LDPE is used primarily for squeeze applications where the container is 4 oz. or less in capacity. LDPE is more expen-sive than HDPE, but will yield a glossy bottle when produced in colors. Polypropylene (PP) Polypropylene is a naturally translucent material which provides contact clarity and an excellent moisture barrier. PP is easily processed via injection molding (jars and closures), and injection or extrusion blow-molding (bottles). One major advantage of polypropylene is its stability at high temperatures (max. temp. 230 degrees-260 degrees.); it is autoclavable and offers the potential for steam sterilization. PP's compatibility with high filling temperatures is respons-ible for its use with hot fill products such as pancake syrup. PP has excellent chemical resistance, but provides poor impact resistance in cold temperatures. Oriented PP offers improved impact resistance at low temperatures. Produced in color PP exhibits a glossy finish. Polyvinylchloride (PVC) PVC is naturally clear, has extremely good resistance to oils and very low oxygen transmission. It provides an excellent barrier to most gases, but is vulnerable to solvents. PVC is a semi-rigid material which, when produced on extrusion blow-molding equipment, can accommodate handled designs. Improvements in resin formulation have increased oxygen barrier properties and chemical resistance, with a 20-30% improvement in drop impact resistance. Advances in molding expertise, as well as in resin formulation, have also yielded an injection blow molding grade of rigid PVC. PVC exhibits low temperature resistance and will distort at 160 degrees. It is not compatible with hot filled products. Because it provides a good oxygen barrier, PVC is an excellent choice for salad oil, mineral oil and vinegar. It is also commonly used for shampoos and cosmetic products. PVC can also be molded via the stretch and blow process. These oriented bottles provide improved barrier properties while allowing light-weighting of the container. Chemical resistance is also improved due to the elimination of the PVC modifiers which are frequently attacked. Handled containers, however, cannot be produced via the stretch and blow process. Food grade and non-food grade resins must be specified. Polyester (PETG, and PET) PETG: Glycol modified Polyethylene Terephthalate is a tough, durable material with excellent gloss and clarity and the sparkle desired for clear bottles. PETG can be processed via conventional extrusion blow-molding methods, generally on machines designed to process PVC or Polycarbonate. Applications include shampoos, soaps, detergents and products not requiring high oxygen or moisture barriers. PET: Polyethylene Terephthalate is an excellent material for use in orientation-blow-molding (stretch blow molding). It is commonly used for carbonated beverage bottles. Oriented PET provides very good alcohol and essential oil barrier properties, generally good chemical resistance (although acetones and ketones will attack PET) and a high degree of impact resistance and tensile strength. The orienting process also serves to improve gas and moisture barrier properties. This material does not provide resistance to high temperature applications (max. temp. 140 degrees). Further the orienting process does not lend itself to the production of handled bottles. Spray Coating A saran or PVDC film can be spray applied to PET , dramatically improving gas barrier properties and allowing for light weighting of containers. |
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4. CLOSURES...THE FINISHING TOUCHThe identification and selection of an appropriate material for the basic container is only part of the complete package concept. Not only the method of keeping the product inside the container but also how it is to be dispensed means that the selection of a proper closure is as important as selecting the container itself. Since the closure is such a critical part of any package, here are some of the goals needed to achieve:
Closures are made of tinplate, aluminum, phenolics, ureas, polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, Teflon, etc. Each has its special uses which are explained in greater detail under "Materials" in this section. Liner systems, like closures, are available to meet a wide range of needs and new systems are replacing older ones continuously. Refer to Liner Systems data in this section. O. Berk can provide guidance and laboratory testing where required to help bring products to market with integrity, functional convenience and aesthetic appeal. |
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5. CLOSURE MATERIALS AND TYPESTHERMOSETTING PLASTIC Phenolic and Urea compounds are included in thermosetting plastic closures.These plastics have proven themselves to have the following characteristics:
Phenolic closures are available in black and brown. Urea closures are available in white and other light colors. When closures are to be metallized, phenolics seem to give better results. The "heft" of the thermoset closure also adds to the feel of quality and superiority. THERMOPLASTIC RESINS Among the major resins considered for the caps and closures are the following: Polypropylene Accounting for the largest share of plastic used (over 60 percent), the resin is best characterized by good clarity, excellent moisture and chemical resistance, high softening point and outstanding dimensional stability. It has been adapted to a broad assortment of food, pharmaceutical and beverage applications, and dominates the child-resistant and tamper-evident fields with sealing characteristics comparable to metal. Though most polypropylene closures are lined, in controlled circumstances linerless closures eliminate the cost of material and inserting of liners. The economies can be worthwhile. It is important that the neck finish of the container mate properly and consistently with the closure. Pre-testing and "on-going" quality control checks of both the container and closure are important when choosing this option. Polystyrene The second most widely used resin within the industry, polystyrene exhibits good clarity, low moisture absorption, smooth surface qualities and ease of processing. Principal applications include overcaps, lid and screw caps for non-oxygen sensitive materials. Demand for polystyrene is expected to slowly decline through the decade as packagers continue to upgrade for improvements in impact and heat properties. Polyethylenes High density (HDPE) brings strong impact, rigidity, good chemical resistance and excellent drug compatibility to the field and is frequently utilized for threaded screw caps, shrink bands and laminated liners. Meanwhile, low density (LDPE/LLDPE) is known for its impact resistance and flexibility. It is especially useful for closures requiring storage at low temperatures. The increasing penetration of polypropylene is expected to continue to depress future growth in caps and closures for the polyethylenes. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Providing good barrier strength and colorability, PVC has gained position in several high-quality applications and is expected to show continued growth from a relatively small position (less than 5 percent) within the industry. Regulatory Specifications Many end-use applications for polypropylene closures require food contact. Regulation 177.1520 of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) covers the use of certain resin grades and additives for this use. The Drug Master File also lists certain resins which have approval for packaging of this type. These regulations may well narrow the list of suitable materials for a specific application and should be considered early in the search process. The many variations within the four major headings above can make the material selection process for a specific closure application seem overly complex, when in fact the closure supplier has an abundance of assistance to call on beyond just the experience factor. SPRAYS AND PUMP DISPENSERS Many products such as fragrances, personal care products, window cleaners, waxes, insecticides, herbicides, etc. are designed for use as sprays. The finger tip sprayer very often is ideal for this purpose. Some models are designed as "shipper units," and need no special packaging. Others that are auxiliary components are sold separately, or included with an economy size pack or concentrate, do not include the sealing feature of the shipper, but are more economical. Fine Mist Sprayers provide an excellent alternative to aerosol packaging, and have met great acceptance in the market. Trigger Sprayers fill the need where a large spray pattern is required, or where the spraying is on-going over a period which would cause fatigue if a finger tip sprayer were used. DISPENSING AND APPLICATOR CAPS The diversified selection of dispensing closures offer great opportunities for convenience and function. They range from dispensers which provide for a stream, ribbon, drop or spray application of a product to shaker fitments for sprinkling dry products. Besides covering a broad range of products from glue to spices, there are many specialized situations which can be met by the use of a dispensing closure such as in one handed applications or in dispensing controlled amounts of a product. The convenient use of a product in its most effective form of application can be the key to market acceptance. For this reason, functional closures should be given careful consideration for inclusion as part of any package. Since many variables affect the compatibility and success of any given combination of product and closure, testing is a crucial step. Many dispensers involve moving, or mating parts as well as critical orifices so one consideration should be simulating conditions in which the product will be used and also accelerated testing for estimated shelf life. This information can narrow the selection process. |
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6. LINER MATERIALS AND SYSTEMS
Closure Viability Depends on Selecting the Proper Liner.
Liner materials for plastic closures can be grouped into three categories:
These categories are not always sharply defined, and many combinations of various materials are used to accommodate specific requirements. A seal can also be achieved in many instances by using a closure that incorporates a specific molded-in feature such as rings, plugs or flexible sections. These features achieve a seal by conforming to one or more of the sealing surfaces on the container neck finish. The five general areas of sealability on the container neck finish are: 1. The top sealing surface 2. The interior vertical surface 3. The inside edge 4. The exterior edge 5. The exterior vertical surface The seal is of the utmost importance when considering the total package. If the seal is not achieved and maintained by the sealing system, the retention and integrity of the product may be jeopardized. Proper closure/container system selection needs to address many issues and concerns, and should be discussed. To illustrate the magnitude of problems surrounding liner selection, here are some factors that may need to be confronted:
O. BERK, through contact with many manufacturers, is the source for up-to-date liner information. |
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7. LINER MATERIALS
At O. BERK, a wide range of closure sizes in various materials are available from stock with these liner systems: |
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8. NECK FINISH DIMENSIONS
"H" Dimension: The height of the neck finish. Measured from the top of the neck to the point where the diameter "T" extended down, intersects the shoulder.  |
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9. APPLICATION TORQUE
Successful application of threaded closures (unlike the "snap-on" variety) is highly dependent upon proper application torque. Many field application problems reported can be traced back to either excessive or insufficient closure torque. Some of the most common characteristics associated with application torque are listed below for your reference. | ||
| CAP SIZE | TORQUE (Inch/Pounds) | |
| GLASS | PLASTIC | |
| 15 20 24 28 33 38 43 45 48 53 58 63 70 83 89 100 | 6-9 lbs. 8-12 10-15 11-17 13-20 15-23 17-26 18-28 19-29 21-32 23-35 25-38 28-42 34-49 36-53 40-60 | 7-9 lbs. 10-12 12-15 13-17 16-20 19-23 21-26 23-28 24-29 27-32 29-35 31-38 35-42 41-49 44-53 48-60 |
10. LABELING AND GRAPHICS
The final step to highlight and identify the product packaged is the selection of a labeling process. There
are many different techniques which can be considered. These are:
1. Silk Screen Printing
2. Heat Transfer Labels
3. Paper Labels
4. Hot Die Stamping
5. Slip-On Sleeve Labels
6. Heat Shrink Labels
7. Applied Ceramic Labeling (ACL)
8. Cold Color Decorating of Glass
9. Lithography
10. In Mold Labeling
11. Post Mold Labeling
12. Acid Frosting
Each technique has merit in a particular sense. The selection will be guided by the complexity of art copy, the shape of the container, the material used in the container, the product, number of containers used annually, number of containers used per release, number of different label designs, container size, whether or not stock tooling is available for the decorating equipment, and many other factors.
The best approach is to thoroughly discuss with the O. BERK sales representative the immediate packaging requirements plus long range expectations.
BOTTLE TREATMENT
Plastic bottles can be made from a variety of thermoplastic resins. Each resin contains properties which complement its end use. The popular resins from which bottles are molded are: the Polyolefins (LDPE, HDPE, PP, etc.); Vinyl (PVC); Polyester (PET and PETG); and Styrenics (PS and AN).
The untreated surface of bottles manufactured from Polyolefins does not attract and hold inks, adhesives, decorative, or protective coatings. The surface must be altered to make it receptive to labeling or decorating.
The surface can be altered to obtain bonding of adhesive or other decorative materials by treating it with a flame or electronically (Corona-Discharge). The treatment methods only modify an extremely thin layer of the surface. Non-Polyolefins (PVC, PET, PETG, PS, and AN) do not need to be treated for bonding or adhesion.
Flame Treating is the most commonly used means of rendering a molded bottle surface receptive to suitable inks, paints, etc. In this method, a hot oxidizing flame (2000 degrees to 5000 degrees) is applied directly to the intended label or decorated area, and is exposed for usually less than one second. Both exposure time and burner set up are important to insure good label and decorating application.
Electronic Corona-Discharge Treating may be utilized to make a Polyolefin bottle surface conducive to labeling and decorating. In this method, the bottles are moved through a high-frequency "bombardment" of high voltage sparks.
SILK SCREEN PRINTING
This decorating technique involves printing on the container itself. Screen-like material is tightly stretched over a frame. The areas on the screen that should not print are blocked by an emulsion coating and ink is forced through the open mesh by a squeegee onto the bottle. The amount of ink applied in silk screen printing is far greater than in other printing methods. Because of this the bottles must be dried after decorating.
A technique used in silk screening to add emphasis to the printed copy is reverse printing. This technique calls for a large body of ink to be laid down on the bottle and having the print or copy appear through the screened area using the bottle color to provide the print. In using the reverse print technique it is often possible to give the appearance of two color printing when, in fact, only one has been used. It's important that print copy is not too small when using reverse printing. There is a tendency for letters to fill in.
When there is more than one color print, or if front and back label panels are required, multiple screening passes are made.
It's advisable to talk to your O. BERK representative, before artwork is prepared. He or she may help attain the desired result the first time instead of having several revisions. There are standards that must be met in artwork to assure good quality printing. When multiple passes are required, particular care should be exercised to avoid copy that requires close registration.
Silk screening is a good technique to utilize when a label copy is likely to be changed often. The cost of new screens is very modest and can be done quickly.
HINTS FOR BETTER SILK-SCREEN LABELING
The following collection of hints will help an art
department prepare a label for silk-screen printing. By observing some of the simple rules of silk-screen artwork preparation, a better label can be attained.
Change One Dimension
It may be necessary to reduce one dimension while holding the other. This is one area where photography does the job and saves the cost of new artwork.
Enlarging and Reducing
Sometimes it is necessary to widen elements in a type face, trademark or a drawing to a minimum size requirement.
Experience in printing large diameter containers, such as one half and one gallon units, indicates a need for tolerance in registration - vertically 1/16 inch and horizontally 1/8 inch.
Wider tolerance is also necessary where the manufacturer has not provided a registration lug or recess in the container.
Tips for Better Screen Printing Art
1. Use clear, sharp type, that does not contain broken or fuzzy characters.
2. If copy is prepared larger than actual size, make sure that it has extra space, so when reduced there will be adequate spacing between characters for legible decorating. Never submit copy that requires greater than a 50% reduction.
3. Avoid the use of designs or logos with fine lines.
4. Keep designs and logos open. Remember that a given design may screen well on an 8 oz. bottle, but may fill in when reduced down to a 4 oz.
5. On small upper case copy use punctuation that is slightly bolder that the letters.
6. Avoid small copy that is tightly spaced.
7. Avoid the use of (R) and (TM) which are small and thin.
8. Add extra space to reversed copy or it will run together.
Reverse Printing
Reverse printing can provide added emphasis on selected areas of the label. However, avoid using type that is too small or with extremely thin body. With the large ink area in reverse printing the ink must be thinner than usual so that the screen mesh marks will flow out before setting, leaving a smooth surface. In the process, letters will fill in if the type face is too small. A good minimum element size for reverse printing is .105 inches.
Multicolor Printing
You may print your label in any combination of the colors listed in a standard color chart. However, the artist must pay extra attention to registration. This is caused by the varying shrinkages in the drying process which prevent the printer from holding hairline registration. Consequently, the artist must design sufficient clearance into the artwork to prevent overlapping of colors.
Round containers require a greater horizontal float than oval shapes. This is because oval bottles can be held in holders that always return to the same starting position after the printing stroke. When preparing multi-color art for printing oval containers, always allow for a minimum 1/32 inch horizontal or vertical float. For round containers, allow 1/16 inch for horizontal float.
Pictured here are circle to circle, point to point, and edge to edge examples typical of those close registration designs that should be avoided in multicolor screen printing.
Experience in printing large diameter containers, such as one half and one gallon units, indicates a need for tolerance in registration - vertically 1/16 inch and horizontally 1/8 inch.
Wider tolerance is also necessary where the manufacturer has not provided a registration lug or recession in the container.
Type Selection
The selection of type faces which print satisfactorily is important. In screen decorating, it is difficult to hold the viscosity of the ink constant. Therefore, type faces should be selected that will not change character when the ink is running slightly heavier or lighter. Type that is too small will allow ink to dry in the screen, closing the letters or causing the insides of letters to fill in. Here's a good rule of thumb on size: Make sure there's no element in a label that's smaller than .005 inch.
Photographic Type Effects
Photography is a great help in preparing type for silk-screen labeling. Using photography the artist can design, redesign or make type fit into tight spaces.
Here are some examples of how photography can help the artist.
Distortion
Using prisms, the photographer can transform an existing type face into an unlimited number of variations.
Note: For special type effects, consult an experienced phototype supplier.
Label Dimensions
Allow a minimum of 1/4 inch from point of curvature at bottom and shoulder of bottle for holding container in printing process. On round bottles, allow a minimum of 1/2 inch parting space between edges of label to eliminate overrun smearing.
Split Screen Printing
A majority of single pass printing is done with one color. However, it is possible to split the silk screen horizontally and print two or more colors in one pass. When preparing split screen art, always allow at least 1/2 inch between colors and run a horizontal line 1/16 inch wide through the center of the break. This will aid the screenmaker in adhering the divider.
HEAT TRANSFER LABELING
This labeling technique is sophisticated and generally requires large run quantities. Heat transfer is the attachment to the container of a decal-like label. When this label has been applied to the container, the finished bottle appears to have actually been printed rather than having a label affixed. For multiple colors (up to 5) or labels with half-tones, heat transfer labels can be used which will provide color quality, registration and competitive pricing. At this time there are two major types of heat transfer labels.
A. Thermiage
This process uses gravure printing to decorate 3 dimensional plastic containers in full color process, halftone or line copy. Label copies are printed in up to 5 colors (plus one lacquer coat for adhesion) on a paper web. Using heat and pressure a Thermiage machine transfers the film-thin decorations from the paper web and applies them to the container in a permanent scuff resistant bond at speeds up to 100 per minute. Most resins in commercial use today can be handled by Thermiage decorating equipment.
Round containers decorated with one label can be printed to a maximum circumference of 20-3/8 inches. Oval, oblong or other shaped containers requiring a front and separate back label must be processed through the equipment separately for each label. This may be done in tandem. Concave surfaced containers offer special problems in that they must be inflated to change the side walls to a convex.
B. Dy-Na-Cal
This system is virtually identical to Thermiage with the exception that a front and back label can be applied to a container in a single step. This process provides labels with as many as 6 colors utilizing halftones or line copy.
Wrap-around coverage is not possible with this process. The maximum decorating area on a cylindrical bottle would be 75% total coverage.
In both the heat transfer processes, color cylinders to print the label and application tooling are required. Often, when volumes to be run are substantial costs can be recovered very quickly.
PAPER LABELING
Paper labeling still remains the most commonly used method. A large quantity user who is cost conscious may select a paper labeling system whereby labels are supplied pre-cut and without glue backing. In the labeling process the glue is applied to the label by machinery, and in turn applied to the container. Because special equipment is required to apply labels of this type usually larger volume manufacturers specialize in this type of decorating. There are, however, low speed, low cost labels available that can perform this same process.
Many fillers will use the same bottle for several products. By doing in-house labeling, the inventory of empty bottles can be kept to a minimum.
Depending on container size, if the total volume is low, pressure sensitive labels may be the best choice. These labels can be made economically for such an application and yet the graphics can be quite extraordinary. Pressure sensitive labels are provided with an adhesive on the label. The end user either mechanically or by hand peels the backing material from the label exposing the adhesive. The label is then pressed onto the container and labeling is completed. Usually the label itself is heavier in weight than conventional paper labels.
Many packagers desiring foil labels will utilize pressure sensitive labels. Compared to other paper label systems pressure sensitive labels may be more costly. But the convenience, flexibility or rich appearance of a pressure sensitive label are principal reasons for their widespread use.
A newer type label has recently been developed. It is a transparent decal-like label that, when applied to a container, gives it the appearance of print being applied directly to the container yet has the advantage of being applied in a similar fashion to a glue type paper label.
HOT DIE STAMPING
This is a process where a solid area of pigment is applied to a roll of polyester film. This roll is then inserted between an etched copper plate bearing the copy and the surface to be decorated.
Tips for Better Hot Stamp Art
1. Place extra letter space between characters on all hot stamp copy or the copy will not be readable when stamped.
2. Set copy in small point sizes in all upper case letters.
3. Use clear, sharp type that does not contain broken or fuzzy characters.
4. Keep designs and logos big and open. Hot stamp has a tendency to spread, and cause fill-in of intricate and detailed designs.
5. Use punctuation that is slightly bolder than the letters and numerals.
6. Avoid hot stamping large solids.
7. Limit hot stamp designs to 90 degrees of the circumference on a cylinder bottle.
Many packagers of cosmetics or similar products will combine hot die stamping with silk screen printing to produce dramatic effects.
SLEEVE LABELING
Sleeve labeling permits large labels of multiple colors and quality printing to be applied by hand or mechanically. Polyethylene sleeves are decorated with printed copy and slipped on the container. By using this technique, plain containers can be inventoried and the appropriate sleeve applied. These sleeves are particularly appealing in the case of a consumer packaging product in large containers which would pose inventory problems.
Many of the manufacturers O. BERK represents can apply sleeve labels. If it is convenient to have pre-labeled containers supplied, O. BERK will arrange to have the appropriate different label designs inventoried. When a release is made, the customer can specify the label mix to be shipped.
It is recommended that containers to be sleeve labeled have a label recess to guard against rubbing. This will also prevent the label from slipping off the container.
It's possible, if the container does not have a label recess, to provide a sleeve label with heat activated glue. The labeled container is subjected to heat which causes the glue to permanently affix the sleeve to the container. The drying oven used with silk screen printing is one good method of accomplishing this. Heat activated glue overcomes the objection of using sleeves on containers for hazardous materials. This labeling technique can be easily done in-house. The labels stretch to fit onto the container and require minor equipment.
HEAT SHRINK DECORATED BANDS
This decorating technique utilizes a printed PVC film band. The band is larger than the diameter of the container, but when heated will shrink to a tight fit.
Shrink bands can be printed with as many as 7 colors and retain excellent color fidelity and registration. Since the bands are applied by the customer, a single container supply can be used for several different products. Inventory is thus held to a minimum.
Shrink bands can be applied either manually or on fully automated systems. Bands will shrink to the container contour in seconds with either a heat gun or heat tunnel.
Shrink band labels will not peel, or abrade. They permit 360 degrees of printable area.
APPLIED CERAMIC LABELING (ACL)
Applied ceramic labeling (ACL) is the application of ceramic inks to a glass container by the previously mentioned Screen Printing method. Ceramic inks contain glass, enabling permanent fusion to the glass container when subjected to intense heat. The printed container is passed through a lehr (conveyer oven) where the ceramic ink is permanently fused onto the glass container surface. Precious metals, such as gold, can be used for decorating.
Applied ceramic labeling will provide copy that will resist scratching or chipping, and provide good chemical resistance.
In addition to screening copy on a glass container, there is also ceramic spraying. This process is a method to color clear glass containers, after they have been produced. Ceramic spray colors are generally opaque and somewhat limited in shade selection. Since the process is ceramic, the container travels through a lehr where the color becomes permanent.
Your O. BERK sales representative can help you develop a suitable ceramic decorated container for your needs.
COLD COLORS
In addition to decorating glass containers by means of ceramics it is possible to decorate by use of organic spray enamels and inks. These inks or sprays can be used to either provide a printed copy or to completely coat the bottle for color or frosted appearance. Flint glass containers can be sprayed and made to appear glossy or matted like a piece of cut marble. The color ranges can vary from very delicate pastels to solid bright colors.
This sophisticated decorating technique is used extensively for containers used in the cosmetic industry. The sales representative can help you determine if it will serve a special need.
ACID FROSTING
Acid frosting subjects glass containers to an acid bath. The bath etches the outer glass surface to produce a frosted appearance. Frosted bottles can be ceramic silk screen decorated.
OTHER LABELING TECHNIQUES
There are many labeling techniques which offer advantages and provide unique features. By working with the O. BERK representative the correct system or combination of systems can be blended to suit the specific application and provide the most attractive, and financially feasible program.
A. CONTAINER TERMS
ACID ETCHING
Glassware is immersed in an acid bath to create a smooth, frosted effect on the glass surface.
ACL - APPLIED COLOR LETTERING
Colored lettering or design of ceramic nature permanently fused onto glass bottle surface.
ACL LUG
A small protrusion or small depressed cavity in a base of bottle to act as a guide in positioning the bottle in the decorating machine for application of ACL.
ANNEALING
A controlled temperature method of gradually cooling glass containers in ovens or lehrs to relieve structural stresses and to make less brittle.
ANTIOXIDANT
A chemical substance that can be added to a plastic resin to minimize or prevent the effects of oxygen attack on the plastic (e.g. yellowing or degradation).
ANTISTATIC AGENT
A chemical substance that can be applied to the surface of a plastic bottle, or incorporated in the plastic from which the bottle is to be made. Its function is to render the surface of the plastic article less susceptible to accumulation of electrostatic charges which attract and hold fine dust on the surface of the bottle.
BLANK
The mold parts used in all glass container machines for preliminary formation of glass in preparation for completion of the glass containers in the finish mold where the bottles are blown. The blank forms the parison, hence the parison itself is at times referred to as the blank.
BLOOM
A surface film resulting from attack by the atmosphere or from deposition of smoke or other vapor.
BLOW AND BLOW
Expression used to identify the production principle of the IS machine making narrow neck containers. Glass is blown into the blank mold and later blown into the finish mold
BLOW MOLDING
A method of fabrication in which a warm plastic parison (hollow tube) is placed between the two halves of a mold (cavity) and forced to assume the shape of that mold cavity by the use of air pressure.
BLUSHING
A surface whitening or discoloration of bottle. it is the result of physically induced (e.g. by impact) or chemically induced phase separation of the (1) ingredients in the plastic compound or (2) the molecular orientation of the plastic.
BOTTOM PLATE (GLASS)
The part of the mold equipment that forms the bottom of the bottle.
BOTTOM PLATE (PLASTIC)
That part of the mold which contains the heel (base radius) radius and the "push-up ' of the container to be formed.
BUTTRESS THREAD
A design of thread profile (cross-section) which takes the form of a right triangle or slight modification of that form. It is usually positioned so that the right angle is at the bottom of the thread cross-section and adjacent to the neck of the bottle finish. The horizontal leg of the right triangle is the bearing surface for a matching cap thread.
CARBOY
A largeware container used principally for acids and chemicals.
CAPACITY
The amount of space inside a container provided for a given amount of product.
CERAMIC DECALS
Silk-screened ceramic inks are printed in registration on a paper carrier. The ceramic ink is then transferred to the glass or ceramic ware in a single pass. The ware is then fired in a lehr at 1100-1200 degrees F, fusing the ceramic decal to the glassware.
Ceramic Spraying
Ceramic paints are sprayed onto the surface of the glassware. The ware is then fired in a lehr at 1100-1200 degrees F, fusing the ceramic spray to the glassware.
CHECK
A very fine closed crack in glass caused by localized heat shock.
CLOSURE
A term used to describe a metal or molded cap which effects a primary seal when properly applied to a container
COLLAPSE
Contraction of the walls of a container.
COPOLYMER
A material whose chemical structure is made up of long chains of two differently structured chemical units (monomers) which repeat a more or less regular pattern in the chain.
CT FINISH
Continuous thread finish -- an interrupted protruding helix on the neck of a container to accommodate a screw-type closure
CYCLE
The complete, repeating sequence of operations in a process. In molding, the cycle time is the period of elapsed time between a certain point in one cycle and the same point in the next.
DECO-GLAZE(R) Coating
A proprietary process for clear, transparent, or opaque coating of glass. The coating are in compliance with CONEG Model legislation. Graphic options available include: Heat transfer labels with matte or gloss lacquers, or silk screening.
DENSITY
Weight per unit of volume of a substance, ex pressed in grams per cubic centimeter, pounds per cubic foot, etc.
DIE
Any tool or arrangement of tools designed to cut, shape or otherwise form materials to a desired configuration.
DOUBLE GOB
A special operation of IS machine in which two gobs of glass are blown simultaneously into containers in a double cavity-type mold.
EXTRUSION
The compacting of a plastic material and forcing of it through an orifice in more or less continuous fashion.
FILL POINT
The level to which a container must be filled to furnish a designated quantity of the contents.
FINISH (GLASS)
The glass surrounding the opening of a bottle. So called because when glass is hand blown, it is the last part formed.
FINISH (PLASTIC)
The plastic forming the opening of a bottle shaped to accommodate a specific closure./
FITMENT
A device used as a part of a closure assembly to accomplish a certain purpose such as a dropper, sprinkler, powder shaker, etc.
FLAME TREATING
A method of rendering inert thermoplastic objects receptive to inks, lacquers, paints, adhesives, etc. in which the object is bathed in an open flame to promote oxidation of the surface of the article.
FLASH
Extra plastic attached to a molding along the parting line; it must be removed before the part can be considered finished.
FLINT
A term used to describe a glass color which is perfectly clear and transparent.
G.P.I.
Glass Packaging Institute, an organization composed of most glass container producers to establish industry policies and standards (formerly G.C.M.I.).
GLASS
Four types of glass are specified by the U.S. Pharmacopoeia on the basis of chemical durability tests. Type 1, 2 and 3 are intended for packaging parenteral preparations and Type NP for non-parenteral products. to blow mold where the bottle takes its final shape.
Type 1. Containers normally made of borosilicate glass having a highly resistant composition. The specification test, called the Powdered Glass Test, is applied to glass as such in crushed or powdered form.
Type 2. Containers made of commercial soda-lime glass which may have been treated on the inside surface at a high temperature to obtain a great improvement in chemical resistance. The usual treatment dealkalized the glass surface to a significant depth producing a chemical resistance similar to that of Type 1, and is known as sulpher treatment.
Type 3. Untreated glass containers made of ordinary soda-lime glass. The specification places a limit on the amount of alkaline material extract in the Powdered Glass Test. The limit is higher than that set for Type 3 ware.
Type NP. Untreated glass containers made of ordinary soda-lime glass. The specification places a limit on the amount of alkaline material extracted in the Powdered Glass Test. The limit is higher than that set for Type 3 ware.
HEAD SPACE
The space between the level of the contents in the neck of a bottle and the closure. It is intended to furnish space for expansion of product due to heat or other action after packing.
HEAT TRANSFER LABEL
A label applied to a container by transferring the label, preprinted on a substrate, to the container surface.
HI-LITE(R) PROCESS
A process utilizing hot-stamp foils which create the raised gold or silver effect on glass, metal, phenolic or urea substances.
HOT STAMPING
Engraving operation for marking plastics in which roll leaf is stamped with heated metal dies onto the surface of the plastics. Ink compounds can also be used. By means of felt rolls, ink is applied to type and by means of heat and pressure, type is impressed into the material, leaving the marking compounds in the indentation.
IN-MOLD LABELING
This is a sophisticated and fairly new decorating method for injection-molded objects which utilizes polyester labels with a heat-activated release coat. During the mold-close cycle, with the combination of high-injection pressure and heat, the label adheres to the part surface in a heat-seal fashion. Nissha labels offer a combination of colors with mirror metallics.
INJECTION BLOW MOLDING
A two stage process where a perform or parison is injection molded. The bottle finish is formed at this time. The perform is then transferred o blow mold where the bottle takes its final shape.
LARGEWARE
A name given containers manufactured on machines especially designed for ware of over one gallon capacity.
MOLD (PLASTIC)
(V) To shape plastic parts or finished articles by heat and pressure.(N) The cavity into which the plastic composition is placed and from which it takes form.
MOLDS (GLASS)
A set of iron forms that are fastened on a bottle machine to provide a means of shaping a glass container.
NECK
The part of the container where the bottle cross-section decreases to form the finish.
NECK INSERT
Part of the mold assembly which forms the neck and finish. Sometimes called the "neck ring."
NECK RING
That part of the mold equipment which forms the finish of a bottle.
OFFSET (PRINTING)
A printing technique in which ink is transferred from a reservoir to a printing plate, from the inked printing plate the image is printed on a cylindrical rubber roll (blanket) and then to the object to be printed.
OPAL
An opaque, white glass used to make jars and bottles.
PAD PRINTING
Ideal for 3-dimensional, contoured objects, pad printing is an indirect-printing process. High-pigmentation ink with added tack is deposited on an etched-metal plate (cliché), where it fills the etched portions and is cleared from the non-etched portion of the plate by a "doctor blade". The remaining ink is then picked up from the etched portion of the plate by a soft-silicone pad which subsequently descends and releases the ink from the silicone pad to the ware being printed. Multicolors are done one at a time. Rotary-pad printing is used for very large volume requirements.
PARISON (GLASS)
A shaped tubular cylinder of molten glass from which a bottle is blown. Also called a "blank" or a "gob."
PARISON (PLASTIC)
The hollow plastic tube from which a container is blow molded.
PRESS AND BLOW
Expression used to identify the production principle of the Miller machine or IS machine with "62 Process" used in making wide mouth containers. A plunger presses glass into the blank mold, and the partially formed blank is later blown into the finish mold.
PROGRAMMING
The extrusion of a parison which differs in thickness in the length direction in order to equalize wall thickness of the blown container.
PROTOTYPE MOLD
A simplified mold construction often made from a light casting alloy or from epoxy resin in order to obtain information for the final mold or part design.
PUSH UP
The contour of the bottom of the plastic container designed in such a manner as to allow as even bearing surface on outside edge and prevent the bottle from rocking.
RAISED GOLD/PALLADIUM DECORATING
Used to create a raised, precious-metal effect on glass or ceramic ware. A clear ceramic flux is applied and fired in a lehr. The gold or palladium is then screened exactly over the flux and then fired in a lehr.
RAMP
A small depressed cavity (detent) in the base of the bottle to act as a guide in positioning the bottle in the decorating machine for application of decoration.
REAMING
A method used to trim and size plastic bottle finishes. A special rotating cutting tool trims the sealing surface smooth and simultaneously reams (bores) the bottle opening to a desired size (also called coring).
SILK SCREEN PRINTING
This printing method in its basic form, involves laying a pattern of an insoluble material, in outline on a finely woven fabric, so that when ink is drawn across it, it is able to pass through the screen in the desired areas only.
S.P.I.
Society of the Plastic Industry.
SPLIT SCREEN PRINTING
A screen with a divider strip to separate colors in order to do multicolor silk screen labeling in a single operation.
SPRAY FROSTING
Ceramic paints formulated to look like acid etching are sprayed on the surface of the glassware and then fired in a lehr.
SURFACE TREATING
Any method of treating a plastic so as to alter the surface and render it receptive to inks, lacquers and adhesives, such as chemical, flame or electronic treating.
STORAGE LIFE
The period of time during which a product can be stored under specified temperature conditions and remain suitable for use. Storage life is sometimes called shelf life.
THERIMAGE
Registered trademark of Dennison Manufacturing Company for their heat transfer label process.
TORQUE
Force in a circular motion as applied to closure on a container, either to attach or remove the closure.
B. COSMETIC TERMS
ACCELERATED AGING
A process whereby the deterioration encountered in natural aging may be accelerated and reproduced in the
laboratory by heat.
ACTUATOR
The finger button that, when depressed, opens
the aerosol or mechanical pump dispenser valve mechanism and allows for dispensing of the product.
ACTUATOR INSERT
The plastic insert in the actuator of a spray pump with an orifice through which the product is dispensed.
ADHESION
The ability of a material to stick to the surface to which it is applied.
AESTHETIC FILL
Filling to a specific level in a clear package where the fill level is visible.
ANNEAL
To make soft and thereby workable by subjecting to high temperatures and controlled cooling. Used to relieve
structural stresses and to make less brittle, as in metals and glass; to remove strains in glass by slow
cooling at elevated temperatures. (Annealing temperatures for glass is about 1000 degrees F.) See LEHR.
ANODIZING
Electrolytic process for forming an oxide coating on aluminum for corrosion and wear resistance.
BARRIER COAT
A surface coating used to improve permeation resistance and protect the container from scuffing.
BLEACHED PAPER
A type of paper which goes through a whitening process.
BLEED
To give up color when in contact with water, solvent or a product; undesired movement of certain materials in a plastic (e.g. plasticizer in vinyl) to the surface of the material or into an adjacent material.
BLOOM
Bloom is the result of ingredients coming out of "solution" in the component and migrating to the surface of the component. Can be seen on the surface of glass as a white scale after the glass has been aged in humidity.
BLOW PRESSURE
The pressure required to form the parison into the shape of the mold cavity, in a blow molding operation.
BLUSHING
A surface whitening or discoloration apparent in plastic materials. It is the result of physically induced (e.g., by impact) phase separation of the (1) ingredients in the plastic molding compound or (2) the molecular orientation of the plastic.
BODY
The principal part of a container, usually the largest piece containing the sides. In collapsible tubes, the body (or wall) is the cylindrical portion below the shoulder extending to bottom of crimped end. In bottles, the body is the main portion of the bottle without the neck.
BRITTLENESS
A property of a material that when it breaks suddenly under an applied load, there is less than a 5% yield of the material with little or no bending or stretch.
BULB
The rubber or plastic squeezable component of a dropper or atomizer.
BUTTRESS THREAD
(See M-STYLE THREAD).
BUTTERFLY HINGE
Flexible (i.e., living) hinge used in joining the cover to the main body of a flip top dispensing closure (e.g., Seaquist dispensing closures). Superior hinge for impact resistance.
CALENDAR
A group of "stack" of rollers through which sheet material is passed, under controlled conditions of heat, pressure, and/or time, in order to give the material thickness, coating or surface finish.
CAP INSERT
The threaded inner part of a two piece cap.
CAPACITY
The brimful volumetric capacity of a container usually expressed in cc. or ml.(See OVERFLOW CAPACITY).
CAVITY
The female component of a mold that forms the outside of an object when plastic or glass is introduced into the mold.
CHAMFER
A beveled edge.
CHECK
Hairline cracks visible on the surface of plastic materials. (See CRAZING).
CHOKED NECK
A narrowed or constricted opening in the neck of a bottle.
COEXTRUSION
The extrusion of two materials simultaneously from a single die in such a way that the two separate materials fuse together to form a single structure.
COLD FLOW
(See CREEP).
COMPATIBILITY
The ability of a container or material to resist chemical degradation or physical change caused by the product, or to chemically change or physically degrade the product container.
CONCENTRICITY
The characteristic of circles or circular cylindrical surfaces of different radii having a common center.
CONTINUOUS THREAD ("C-T")
An uninterrupted protruding helix on the neck of a bottle to hold a screw type closure.
CORONA TREATMENT
Pre-decorating treatment for inert plastics, primarily polyolefins, to make them more receptive to inks, adhesives and decorative coatings by subjecting their surface to corona discharge. The corona discharge oxidizes the film, forming polar groups on vulnerable sites, increasing the surface energy and making the film receptive to inks, etc.
COVER CAP/DUST CAP/HOOD/SHROUD
Plastic cap used to protect a dispenser from accidental actuation and contamination. Also used to protect the point of a lip-eye pencil or lipstick.
CRAZING
An undesirable defect in plastic articles characterized by distinct surface cracks or minute frost-like internal cracks, resulting from stresses within the article that exceed the tensile strength of the plastic. Such stresses may result from molding shrinkage, or machining, flexing, impact shocks, temperature changes, or the action of chemical and solvents.
CREEP
The dimensional change with time of a material under load, following the initial instantaneous elastic deformation. "Creep" at room temperature is sometimes called "Cold Flow."
CULL
The remove defective or damaged parts or articles from the Production line.
CURE
To change the molecular structure and properties of a plastic or resin by chemical reaction usually accomplished by the action of either heat or a catalyst or both, with or without pressure.
CUT-OFF
(See PINCH-OFF)
DEBOSS(ED),(ING)
Depressed design or lettering on the surface of a bottle.
DELIVERY RATE/SHOT SIZE/DOSAGE
Amount of product dispensed in one actuation. Output per stroke (ml. or grams/second) for continuous dispensing systems.
DENSITY
The weight of a given volume of material usually expressed as grams per cubic cm.
DEPTH OF INSERTION
The distance between the rim of a metal overshell and the skirt of a threaded insert in a two piece closure.
DIE CUT
Any operation in which a form that incorporates sharp cutting edges is pressed into a substrate to cut out a desired shape.
DIMENSIONAL STABILITY
The ability of a material to maintain its shape under given processing or use conditions.
DIP TUBE
Open ended flexible plastic tube that attaches to the tank of a pump and extends into the product creating a means for the product to be dispensed through the pump.
DRAIN BACK
A conical shaped inside dimension of a neck finish that extends downward from the land area to form an orifice whereby product returns into the bottle.
"E" DIMENSION
On a threaded bottle neck (finish), the measurement across the root of the threads.
EMBOSS(ED),(ING)
Raised design or lettering on the surface of a container.
ENVIRONMENTAL STRESS CRACKING
The susceptibility of a plastic part to crack or craze under the influence of certain chemicals, stress or other agents.
EXTRUSION BLOW MOLDING
A process for forming hollow narrow-mouthed bottles and similar hollow shapes. A cylindrical tube (the parison) is extruded and, while still in a hot pliable form, clamped between two mold cavity halves and then inflated to conform to the mold surfaces.
FEA FINISH
European equivalent of GCMI finish.
FILL LEVEL
Distance as measured down from the open end of a container to the surface of the material filed into the container.
FINISH
That portion of the neck of a glass or plastic container which carries the threads, lugs or friction fit members to which the closure is applied, and includes the sealing surface and sealing bead; generally, the whole portion above the transfer or pry-off bead. (The term finish in connection with glass containers is a holdover from earlier days before glass blowing became an automatic, mechanized operation. The neck of a container was the last part to be formed, hence the name finish.)
FISH EYES
Undissolved particles in coating composition. Also, air bubbles or voids in glass containers.
FITMENT
A device used to accomplish a certain purpose, such as an orifice reducer, dropper, sprinkler, powder shaker, etc.
FLAME TREAT
Exposing a material to a gas flame to increase the polarity of the surface. Pre-decorating procedure for PE & PP tubes and bottles. Flame treating generally causes some shrinkage of the bottle resulting in a decrease in the capacity of the bottle from the original mold.
FLASH
Excess plastic material that is squeezed out between the mold parts during molding.
FLEXIBILITY
The property of a material which will permit its being bent or twisted without breaking.
FLIP TOP/SNAP TOP DISPENSING CLOSURE
A two piece closure system where both pieces are typically attached by a living hinge. One half provides the threads for attachment to a bottle, tube or jar and an orifice for dispensing the product while the other half provides the closure mechanism, usually a pintel that snaps audibly into the orifice.
FLOW LINES
Any visible mark on a molded part which indicates the direction that the liquefied resin passes through in the cavity or the die.
FLOW MARKS
Often similar to flow lines, these marks are slight imperfections to the surface of a molded part that are results of the passage of liquefied plastic through the mold cavity. Often exhibits a wavy surface appearance.
FLUORINATION
A surface treatment for polyethylene that is used to improve the barrier properties against non-polar materials or solvent.
GCMI
Glass Container Manufacturers Institute.
GAS PERMEABILITY
The ability of a gas or other volatile substance to penetrate a material. Materials that will allow significant passage of gases are said to be permeable, while materials that resist or stop the passage of gases are said to offer gas barrier properties.
GATE
In injection and transfer molding, the orifice through which melted plastic enters the mold cavity. All plastic items manufactured by these processes will exhibit a mark from the gate somewhere on the part.
GLASS SURFACE TREATMENT
Pristine glass has a very high coefficient of friction: Glass containers are surface coated by the glass manufacturer to provide lubricity, so that containers can pass readily on conveying systems and will not cling to and scratch one another on contact.
GLASSINE PAPER
A smooth, dense, translucent paper made from highly beaten chemical pulps. It has very low porosity including resistance to grease, air and vapor transmission. When waxed, lacquered or laminated it is practically impervious to moisture vapor.
GLOSS
The amount of surface sheen or reflectance of a substance.
GRAVURE PRINTING
A method of printing that uses cells etched or engraved into the surface of a metal cylinder to meter and correctly pattern the ink. Gravure printing press used in packaging are predominantly roll fed.
"H" DIMENSION
(1) on a threaded bottle neck (finish), the measurement from the top of the finish to the point where diameter "T" extended parallel to the centerline intersects the shoulder or bead. (2) the inside height of the closure, measured from the bottom of the closure in a line tangent to the threads of the closure and terminating at the inside top of the closure with liner removed.
HARDNESS
The resistance of a material to compression and indentation.
HAZE
A cloudy or foggy appearance in a normally transparent plastic.
HEAD SPACE
The volume of empty space between the fill level of a container and the overflow capacity of the container.
HEAD STYLE (TUBE)
General definition of a neck finish, i.e., M5, M6.
HEEL
The part of a bottle between the bottom bearing surface and the side wall.
HEELTAP
Heavy glass on one side of the bottom of a glass bottle.
HERMETIC SEAL
A seal that will exclude air and will be gas tight at normal temperatures and atmospheric pressures.
HOT-STAMPING
Transfer of a foil to a substrate under heat and pressure.
"I" DIMENSION
A specified minimum dimension inside the bottle neck that will allow sufficient clearance for filler tubes to enter the bottle neck.
INDEX
Position in an arrangement.
INJECTION MOLDING
A molding process in which, under pressure, melted or liquefied plastic is forced from a cylinder into a cooled mold cavity to form a desired shape.
INJECTION BLOW MOLDING
A blow molding process in which the parison to be blown is formed by injection molding.
INTERRUPTED THREAD
Thread on (neck) finish of bottles in which the thread has gaps or discontinuities, the gaps being at the parting line of the mold.
KRAFT
A chemical wood pulp made by the sulphate process, or paper or paperboard made from such pulp. It is brown in color and is the strongest pulp product made from wood. (Kraft is the German word for strong).
"L" DIMENSION
Measured from the top of the finish to the point where diameter "E" extended parallel to centerline intersects the bead (for example, SP-410 and SP-415 finishes.
LLDPE
Linear Low Density Polyethylene.
LABEL CLAIM
The declared contents of a package expressed in fluid ounce and millimeters for volume claims and avoirdupois ounce and grams for net weight claims.
LEACHING
The removal of a component of the package by the product is referred to as leaching. A dye from the container dissolving in a product is an example of leaching. A leached material becomes a product contaminant.
LEHR
An oven used to anneal glass in order to reduce internal stress that would result from too rapid cooling.
LEXAN
Polycarbonate resin, G.E. Plastics
LIVING HINGE
Integral hinge made of flexible plastic.
LUG CLOSURE
A screw-type closure where the thread is interrupted rather than continuous. The closure is effected by a short camming action. One advantage is that application is very fast, since the closure needs only a few degrees of rotation. In contrast, a normal continuous thread closure might require 360 degrees or more of rotation to effect a seal.
METALIZING
Applying a thin coating of metal to a non-metallic surface. May be done by chemical deposition or by exposing the surface to vaporized metal in a vacuum chamber.
MIGRATION
(See BLEED).
MIL
A unit of thickness measurement being .001 inch.
MILITARY STANDARD 105E SINGLE SAMPLING PLAN
Internationally accepted random sampling.
MINIMUM WALL
A term that designates the minimum thickness of the wall of a container.
MOTTLE
A speckled or spotted appearance on the surface of a package, generally undesired.
MYLAR
Polyester film, DuPont Co.
NECK BEAD
(See TRANSFER BEAD).
NECK FINISH
(See FINISH).
NECK RING
That part of a mold which makes the glass finish. Indicated by a mark or line circling the container under the bead.
NECK SIZE (TUBE)
The # refers to the number of 64ths of an inch in the opening of the tube neck, i.e., a #16 neck size refers to a 16/64" (1/4") opening. The number is sometimes preceded by a letter, M = metric series; S = U.S. standard series.
NOTCHED
Refers to the end of a pump dip tube which is V-cut to prevent the dip tube from sealing off on the container bottom.
OFFSET PRINTING
A process of indirect printing in which an impression of type or a design on a flat plate is printed on a rubber-blanketed cylinder from which it is impressed, i.e., offset upon the surface to be decorated.
OPAQUE
Descriptive of a material or substance which will not transmit light.
OPHTHALMIC/NASAL TIP
Pointy tip of a tube used for dispensing small amounts of product.
ORANGE PEEL
Uneven surface (of a bottle) somewhat resembling an orange peel.
OUTERSHELL
Outer casing on a two piece jar.
OVERFLOW CAPACITY
The capacity of the container to the top of the finish or to the point of overflow.
OVERSHELL
Metal, usually aluminum, outer casing on a two piece closure.
PANELING
Distortion (side wall collapse) of a container occurring during aging or storage, caused by the development of a reduced pressure inside the bottle.
PARISON
(a) A partially formed glass shape that will be blown into a glass container; (b) the extruded hot plastic tube that will be placed in a mold to be inflated into a bottle or other hollow form.
PARTING LINE
Mark on a bottle where halves of mold meet in closing.
PERMEATION
The extent to which a gas or water vapor passes through a plastic film or container.
PINCH-OFF
A raised edge around the cavity in the mold, which seals off the part and separates the excess material as the mold closes around the parison in the extrusion blow molding operation.
PINHOLE
A very small hole in a plastic bottle.
PITCH
The distance measured between the centers of two adjacent threads of a closure or a bottle, jar or tube.
PITTING
Depressions in a metal surface caused by corrosion, and also refers to pin holes in metallized surfaces and foil stamping.
PLASTIC MEMORY
The tendency of plastics to return to their original molded form.
PLASTIC FLOW
(See CREEP).
PLASTICIZER
A material added during the manufacturing process to increase flexibility.
PLUG
A fitment that is pressed into a bottle neck opening to close off or reduce the passage.
POUR-OUT FINISH
A bottle finish having uniform undercut lips as a dealing surface. Designed to facilitate pouring without dripping.
PRIMARY PACKAGE
The first wrap or containment of a product.
PULL TAB
A projection of small area from a label, usually pressure sensitive, to assist in the removal of the label from the part, i.e., powder sifter fitment, purity seal.
PURCHASE LENGTH
Refers to tube length specification for purposes of purchasing from the vendor.
PUSH-UP
The recessed area on the bottom of a bottle designed to allow an even bearing surface on the outside edge and prevent the bottle from rocking.
RAMP
Orienting deboss in the bottom of jars and bottles for use in decorating.
REAMING
A post-operation used to size the inside of a bottle finish.
REGISTRATION
A condition of correct alignment of one part or operation with another part or operation.
REGRIND
A thermoplastic from a processor's own production which, having been processed by molding, extrusion, etc., is then reground or pelletized.
REMOVAL TORQUE
The rotational force required to remove a threaded closure.
ROCKER
A plastic bottle with a bulged or deformed bottom, causing rocking of the bottle in the upright position.
ROLL-ON BALL SOCKET
That part of a roll-on package into which the roll ball snaps.
RUNNER
In injection molding, one of the passages that take plastic melt from the injection point (sprue) and distribute it to the various cavities in a multicavity mold.
"S" DIMENSION
The vertical distance (height) measured from the top of the land area to the very most upper part of the start of the thread finish.
SA66
3M trade name for pulp/aluminum foil/Mylar cap liner material.
SADDLE FINISH
A molding defect which occurs during the Lehr process (cooling of the material). The top of the neck finish will actually have two high points approximately 180 degrees directly opposite each other, and two low points approximately 180 degrees opposite each other.
SARAN
Polyvinylidene chloride film, Dow USA.
SCUFF
To rub or abrade.
SEALING BEAD
A bead of material which is molded onto the top of the land area completely around the top of the neck finish in order to further enhance the sealing capabilities of the component.
SEALING LAND
The top surface of a container finish to which a cap liner or gasket engages and compresses to effect a seal.
SHRINK MARK
An imperfection, a depression in the surface of a molded bottle where it has retracted from the mold.
SIFTER TOP
Perforated top on a container or fitment designed to dispense contents.
SILK SCREEN PRINTING
A printing process widely used on plastic bottles and other articles, employing as a stencil a taut woven fabric secured in a frame, the fabric being coated in selected areas with a masking material that is not penetrated by the ink being used. The stencil fabric is commonly called a "silk screen" even though silk is rarely used today. Nylon is most often used, and screens of copper, stainless steel and many other materials are suitable. The screen is placed above the part to be decorated, and a flexible squeegee forces ink through the openings in the screen onto the surface of the article. Multicolor work requires multiple screens and impressions.
SINK MARK
A shallow depression on the surface of an injection molded part due to collapse of the surface as the molten plastic material cools and contract.
SKIRT
The wall of a closure below the functional threads.
SKU
Stock Keeping Unit.
SPIRAL WOUND TUBE
Tubular packages made by spirally winding paper or foil-lined paper. Used as an insert and barrier material in shaker talc containers.
SPRINKLER FINISH
A restricted orifice molded into the finish of a glass bottle.
STRESS CRACK
A fissure or separation that develops in a material under an applied load or stress.
STRIATION
Lines that can appear on the surface of glass or plastic components resulting from uneven cooling of the part in the mold. Can also result from a chemical attack on the component.
"T" DIMENSION
The outside diameter of the thread helix on a bottle finish.
THERMOFORMING
A method of forming plastics in which a plastic sheet material is heated to a point where it is soft and pliable. The sheet is then formed to the desired shape using vaccum, pressure and mechanical assists or any combination of these.
TINPLATE
Sheet steel, usually of special formula and temper, coated on both sides with a controlled thickness of pure tin. The tin acts to protect the steel and reduce the possibility of corrosion.
TOTTLE
Tube-bottle (pinch bottom tube).
TORQUE
Twisting force as in tightening a cap onto a bottle.
TORQUE REQUIREMENT
The minimum degree of closure tightness to achieve a projected yearly maximum weight loss of 2%.
TRANSFER BEAD
A projecting bead or ring on the outer surface of some glass containers, usually just below the finish, to provide a surface of engagement for the jaws of handling devices during manufacture.
TRIMMED LENGTH
Refers to the tube length of a sealed tube after the seal area is trimmed. The corporate spec. allows the trimmed length to be ± 0.060" (1.5mm) of the nominal tube length.
TRUNCATE
To shorten or cut off.
TUBE DIAMETER
Determined by measuring the outside diameter of the tube just below the shoulder where tube is most rigid and can be accurately measured with a caliper.
TUBE LENGTH
Determined by measuring the distance from the outer edge of the tube shoulder to the end of the open end of the tube.
TUBE CRIMPING AREA
The uncoated portion of the tube located at the open end of the tube. The corporate tube spec. is 9mm ± 1.2mm of uncoated length.
U.V. CURING
A process which uses UV light wavelengths instead of heat to cause the cross linking of an ink or coating.
U.V. INHIBITOR
A chemical which is added to a plastic resin which absorbs UV light and helps prevent damage to and prolongs the life of the plastic. Tinuvin compounds (hindered amine light stabilizers from Ciba-Geigy) are an example. (See UV STABILIZER).
ULTRASONIC SEALING
A film sealing method in which sealing is accomplished through the application of vibrating mechanical pressure at ultrasonic frequencies (20 to 40 KC). The vibrating pressures at the film interface develops enough localized heat to melt and fuse the plastic surfaces effecting the seal.
UNDERCUT
In plastic molding, a shape that cannot be directly removed from the mold without the need to incorporate mold parts that need to be moved out of the way to release the part. Undercuts significantly increase tooling costs.
UNIT CAVITY
A mold with only one cavity, usually a pilot for the production set of molds.
UPC (UNIVERSAL PRODUCT CODE)
A 10-digit number which uniquely identifies products. The first 5 digits identifies the manufacturer and the second 5 digits identifies the item.
UV STABILIZER (ULTRAVIOLET)
Any chemical compound which, when admixed with a thermoplastic resin, selectively absorbs UV rays and minimizes chemical and/or physical changes that may be caused. (See UV INHIBITOR).
VALVE
A device which regulates the flow of material through an opening.
VENT HOLE
Hole in the tank of a mechanical pump dispenser which allows the pump to "vent", i.e., pump air into the package to displace the material being dispensed from the package. If the pump does not vent, a vacuum will be created in the package causing the pump to stop functioning and may also result in deformation (wall pull-in) of the container.
VIAL
Extrusion molded glass or plastic tube which can be cut to any length desired.
WASHBOARD
A wavy condition of horizontal lines in the body of the bottle.
WELD LINES
A visible line created on the surface of a molded part caused by two flowing streams of plastic joining with the cavity as the cavity is filled.
WELD MARK
A mark on a molded part made by the meeting of two flow fonts during the molding operation.
YIELD POINT
That point beyond which the stresses applied to a material will cause permanent deformation.
C. PHARMACEUTICAL TERMS
Aclar(R)
Allied Signal, Inc.'s registered trade name for high barrier films made from PCTFE (polychlorotrifluoroethylene) resins.
AMPULE
A glass container filled with medication and closed with a rubber stopper.
ANDA
Amended New Drug Application
h the Food and Drug Administration).
ASEPTIC
Sterile.
BARCODE
A way of labeling or coding a product that allows a clear description of the contents and limits dosage mistakes. Barcodes can only be read by scanners.
BARRIER
Protection from deterioration or ingress of moisture through package material.
BINGO CARD
A large calendar blister card designed for ease in handling to prompt compliance, high visibility, and user friendliness. Normally in a monthly supply. Commonly used by inpatient facilities.
BLISTER CARD
A blister pack sealed into a fold-over card.
BLISTER PACK
A unit-dose package commonly constructed from a formed cavity containing one or more individual doses.
BOTTLES
Glass or plastic container used to package solid or liquid pharmaceutical products.
CALENDAR BLISTER
A blister package designed to facilitate a patient's memory by incorporating the day/time that each dose is to be taken into the package design.
CAPSULE
Solid dose medication filled into gelatin halves and pushed together; easy to swallow.
COMPLIANCE
Adhering to a prescribed regimen. Taking one's medication properly.
CPSC
Consumer Product Safety Commission. The Federal agency responsible for implementing the Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970.
CR
Child Resistant, indicate s that a package will pass a test protocol administered by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
DESICCANT
Highly hygroscopic substance used to absorb moisture in bottles, vials and blisters.
DIAL-PACK
Commonly used for oral contraceptives, this type of package utilizes a calendar design such that a dial must be turned each day to remove a tablet.
DOSAGE
Prescribed amount of medication to be taken.
EXPIRATION DATE
The date until a pharmaceutical product is safe to be consumed.
FFS
Form fill seal.
FOIL
Thin gauge aluminum, typically 20-25 micron, used a push-through lidstock available as hard tempered and soft. Can be primed on two sides in multicolor.
GEL CAP
A gelatin-coated capsule which is easier to swallow, and tamper evident.
GENERIC
RX or OTC drugs which are no longer protected by a patent.
GMP
Good Manufacturing Practices (as established by the FDA).
HMO
Health Maintenance Organization.
HUD
Hospital Unit Dose packages intended for use by in-patient hospital pharmacies.
INDA
Investigational New Drug Application.
LIDDING STOCK
Material used to seal a blister to prevent or minimize moisture/gas permeation.
LOT NUMBER
A number that is assigned to a production batch so that all of a product's components can be traced.
MACHINABILLLITY TEST
A test done to review the performance of blister components to optimize actual production runs, and find the best machine settings for individual materials.
MONOGRAPH
Standards issued by the USP.
MVTR
Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate; the amount of moisture that is transmitted through packaging film or foil over a set period of time.
MYLAR(R)
The registered trade name of Dupont's polyester film.
NDA
New Drug Application (must be submitted to the FDA for approval to manufacture and market the drug).
NONCOMPLIANCE
Not taking one's medication properly.
OPD
Original Pack Dispensing. A Pharmaceutical product that is dispensed to the patient in the manufacturer's original package (i.e., not repackaged by a pharmacist or anyone else).
OTC
Over the Counter Drugs -- available without a prescription.
PHYSICIAN SAMPLE
See trial size.
POLYPROPYLENE
A monolayer blister film used for pharmaceutical packaging. Use of this film may require machine or tooling modifications.
POUCHES/SACHETS
A flexible material (usually paper, foil, PE, PET or a multi-laminate) used to package medication.
PVC
Polyvinyl Chloride. Commonly used for blister packaging of solid and liquid dose products.
PVDC
Polyvinyldine Chloride. Waterborn emulsion that is coated onto PVC or PVC/PPE to enhance MVTR & O2 TR transmission.
RELIEVED AREA
An area that is predesigned into a package for easier openings.
RX
Drugs that require a doctor's prescription for legal dispensation.
SF
Senior Friendly; easier for older people to handle and open.
SNDA
Supplemental Drug Application.
SOLID DOSE
Non-liquid dosages such as tablets, capsules, caplets, etc.
STABILITY TESTING
The process used to confirm the efficacy of individual medicines for a set time within a given package under elevated humidity and temperature conditions.
STRIP PACK
A package used to protect solid dose pharmaceutical products, and to provide relatively inexpensive protection for individual dosages.
TAMPER EVIDENT
One or more safety features used to indicate that a package is not in the original condition as it was when shipped from the manufacturer or packager.
TOLERANCE
Minimum/maximum range of measurement.
TRANSMISSION
Quantity of moisture and/or gas passing through the packaging film or foil over a specific period of time.
TRIAL SIZE
Sample of a drug given to the patient by a doctor in a blister, strip pack or small bottle for patient to try medication, free of charge. Also known as physician sample.
TYVEK(R)
The registered trade name of Dupont polyethelyene film used as a breathable or as a lidstock that is difficult to tear.
UNIT-DOSE
The prescribed amount of each dosage in a package.
UNIT-OF-USE
The exact amount of a drug's treatment pre-packaging by the manufacturer or pharmacist in standardized amounts.
USP
United States Pharmacopoeia (a non-governmental, non-profit, scientific body that establishes drug standards in the United States).
VIAL
Glass or plastic container filled with medication.
D. OTHER TERMS
PROCESS COLORS
In printing, the subtractive primaries: yellow, magenta, and cyan, plus black in four color process printing
REFLECTION COPY
In photography, illustrative copy that is viewed and must be photographed by light reflected from its surface. Examples are photographs, drawings, etc.
SCAN - A - WEB
In web-printing, a rotating mirror arrangement where speed can be varied to match speed of press so image on paper can be examined during printing.
SCANNER
An electronic device used in making color and tone corrected separations of images.
SHOW-THROUGH
In printing, the undesirable condition ion which the printing on the reverse side of a sheet can be seen through the sheet under normal lighting conditions.
SUPER CALANDER
In papermaking, a calendar stack, separate from the papermaking machine, with alternate metal and resilient rolls, used to produce a high finish on paper.
TRANSPARENT COPY
In photography, illustrating copy, such as a color transparency or positive film through which light must pass in order for it to be seen or reproduced.
TRAPPING
In printing, the ability to print a wet ink film over a previously printed ink. Dry tapping is printing wet ink over dry ink. In prepress, refers to how much overprinting colors overlap to eliminate white line between colors in printing.
VELOX
A photographic paper print made from a screen negative.
VIGNETTE
An illustration in which the background fades gradually away until it blends into the unprinted paper.
WORK AND TURN
To print one side of a sheet of paper, turn it over from left to right and print the second side using the same gripper and plate.
WYSIWYG
In electronic publishing, an acronym for what you see is what you get, i.e. the composite page viewed electronically is what the printer will output.